A number of Rumford area residents played important roles during the Civil War -- and in the community afterwards. Among these are William King Kimball, who commanded the 12th Maine for much of the war.

John Y. Merrill of Leeds (1823-1898) made terse entries in diaries he kept for 11 years. His few words still provide a glimpse into the life of a mid 18th century farmer, who also made shoes, quarried stone, moved barns, made healing salves -- and was active in civic affairs.

George F. Shepley of Portland had achieved renown as a lawyer and as U.S. Attorney for Maine when, at age 42 he formed the 12th Maine Infantry and went off to war. Shepley became military governor of Louisiana early in 1862 and remained in the military for the duration of the war.

Highlights from the history of what is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in Maine. The site was created by a partnership between MDI High School, Mount Desert Elementary School, and a number of supporting organizations: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor Historical Society, the Jesup Memorial Library, Great Harbor Maritime Museum, and the Maine Granite Industry Historical Society. Exhibits cover Northeast Harbor, the Granite industry, Bar Harbor’s Building of Arts, the Green Mountain Railway, the Bryants and the Rockefellers, and steamboats.

Eleven communities comprise the Western Foothills Region, all interconnected yet each with its own unique, rich history.
This site is the beginning of the towns sharing their stories with the world, each other, and the next generation. Working closely with local schools, six historical societies came together to help the next generation understand the heritage of their area.
We invite you to explore our exhibits that celebrate the individuals and events that formed our communities.